Practice Question
A patient with cardiogenic shock has the following vital signs: BP 102/50, pulse 128, respirations 28. The pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) is increased and cardiac output is low. The nurse will anticipate an order for which medication?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Epinephrine (Adrenalin) drip
Rationale:
⭐ Cardiogenic shock presents with low cardiac output and high PAWP, indicating the heart cannot pump effectively.
⭐ Epinephrine improves contractility (α1 and β1 effects), helping restore forward blood flow.
⭐ It increases systemic vascular resistance, supporting blood pressure when the myocardium is failing.
⭐ It raises heart rate and enhances myocardial perfusion, essential in a failing pump.
⭐ Epinephrine is indicated in severe hypotension and cardiogenic collapse when inotropes are required.
Hydrocortisone
⭐ Steroids support adrenal insufficiency—not cardiogenic shock.
⭐ They do not improve contractility or cardiac output.
Furosemide
⭐ Although used when pulmonary congestion exists, the patient already has low cardiac output, not fluid overload.
⭐ Diuretics would worsen hypotension and perfusion.
Albumin 5%
⭐ Volume expansion is not appropriate because PAWP is already elevated.
⭐ More fluid would worsen pulmonary edema.
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This question is from Exam NUR 4338 complex Human Needs SN FA25 which contains 85 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: Examplify Exam(s)
- Domain: Health Assessment
- Answer Choices: 4